Calls for block exemption extension

Members of the European Parliament have criticised the European Commission's proposals for ending the automotive sector's block exemption from aspects of competition law.

The Commission wants the current rules, which are due to expire on 1 May 2010, to be renewed for the servicing and repair of motor vehicles, but for those governing vehicle sales and distribution to be removed by 2013. In their response to the plans, discussed last week, several committees of MEPs charged with scrutinising the proposals argued that the Commission had failed to provide a robust case for change.

There was also a consensus that it was vital for independent operators in the vehicle-servicing aftermarket to have access to manufacturers' technical information. The MEPs have written to the Commission requesting more time to review its proposed changes and asking for the current regulations to be extended until 2011.

For the full details of the BVRLA's work on this issue click here...

source: BVRLA